Program Requirements

Thank you for your service, and for considering Soldier's Best Friend. We pair veterans with service and therapeutic companion dogs, and dogs placed by SBF come at no cost to you. Before you apply, please read the requirements below so you know what the program involves and whether it's the right fit. When you're ready, the application request button is at the bottom of this page.

Who Can Apply

• Diagnosis: You have a confirmed medical diagnosis of military service-related Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and/or combat-related Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and you can provide documentation.
• Location: You live in Arizona, or you're willing to relocate here for six to nine months to complete training if you're accepted.

If You Already Have a Dog

You may be able to train with a dog you already own. Here's how it works:

• Dogs 1 to 3 years old can be evaluated to become your service/therapeutic companion dog. If your dog passes the evaluation, it must be spayed or neutered within 30 days to be accepted into the program.
• Dogs younger than 1 year old aren't ready yet. Please wait to apply until your dog is at least a year old and you're ready to have it spayed or neutered.

What It Costs You

What you pay depends on whether you're placed with an SBF dog or bring your own.

• If you're placed with an SBF dog: SBF provides the dog at no cost and covers all of the dog's expenses while you're in the program. When you graduate, ownership of the dog transfers to you, and you take on its ongoing care costs from then on.
• If you bring your own dog: You're responsible for your dog's expenses, including during the program. You may be eligible for reduced veterinary costs through SBF.

Either way, you'll eventually be responsible for your dog's everyday care, such as food, vet visits, and supplies. We want you to plan for that ahead of time so your partnership is set up for the long run.

Yearly costs depend on your dog's size, age, and health, where you live, and the choices you make. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), typical costs are:

• Small dog: about $1,003 per year ($15,051 over an average 15-year life)
• Medium dog: about $1,214 per year ($15,782 over an average 13-year life)
• Large dog: about $1,448 per year ($14,480 over an average 10-year life)

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Clicking the button below takes you to a short request form. Once we receive it, we'll send you the full application.